Garden Bistro - Lakeland

This restaurant is in a lovely setting with a lake view and nearby rose gardens. Outside seating is available. The service is friendly, timely and attentive. And the food is great! We both had the smoke salmon BLT on our first visit, and it is remarkable for its fresh crusty bread and especially delicious bacon, 3 thick slices. On our second visit, two days later, I repeated the smoked salmon BLT, and my friend had their version of a Cuban sandwich, called a Miami, and said it was perfect. We also split a huge slice of their lemon layer cake drizzled with raspberry sauce and topped with lemon frosting. They sell out of their desserts, so it 's wise to order with your meal to reserve your serving!

I've come here many times. Their drinks are simple and affordable, and there's a chance you'll get a star item from the menu. Today, I had that item. A three cheese grilled cheese and tomato soup. Man this combo hit the spot. We snagged the best seat in the restaurant (right on the edge of the exterior entry) with the best view of the lake and to people watch. Stop by the gardens next door on your way out, they are just beautiful.

It's a unique small place with unique food. It's not a large chain restaurant. Think of it like dining at your grandmother's back patio in the summer. You are lucky to be there. Shut up and enjoy the food, which is really good

First time here and last time. Barely got to sit and the server was very off putting from the get go. We asked for coffee with milk, so they bring us the little half and half cups. We repeat can we please have a glass of milk and the server looked at us like we had two heads. Mind you during this time she greeted very pleasantly other tables that were sitting and addressed other guests with a smile, but when we asked for something she came off as we were annoying her. Finally we get our coffee and when I started to stir it two dead flies came up to the top of my cup. So no they did not just land in there, they were stuck to the bottom. I could not help noticing that the other tables the server was nice to were white to put it bluntly. I told my table we need to go. We got up and left and won't be returning. I don't expect to be treated any different because my skin happens to be a little browner, and I talked to my mom in Spanish at a low tone so she can understand the menu. I work hard, pay my taxes, and deserved to be treated as a paying customer.

Wonderful sandwiches!! I love their take on the BLT with smoked salmon!! Great sides too!